Amber Main, a 14-year-old rising basketball player, is among the two selected from the Pacific to receive Basketball Australia’s She Hoops Leadership and Confidence Scholarship.

Solomon Islands’ Francina Manele is the other Pacific islander selected.

Amber is from Alafua, Safa’atoa in Lefaga, and Salua in Manono. She has five siblings and is the youngest. 

Peuina, Amber’s mother, said, “We are truly grateful for the support provided by the Samoa National Basketball Association(SNBA) and by her family.” She said that Amber loves volunteering in church youth activities and is always happy to help. She also said that Amber was born in Wellington, New Zealand, the day after the All Blacks won the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

President of SNBA, Pualele Craig, said, “We are extremely grateful for this scholarship program and Basketball Australia and Pacific Aus Sport’s generosity.” She added, “We are particularly humbled that Amber Main was selected as one of only 2 scholarship recipients for this program from Oceania.” 

“Amber is an active participant in all our local basketball programs and is always eager to serve and share her knowledge with the younger players,” said the president. 

“She is intelligent, respectful, possesses a sweet and cheerful spirit, uplifting attitude, and is one Tama’ita’i Samoa who is most deserving of this opportunity.” 

In an interview with FIBA, Amber said, “I feel incredibly grateful and excited to be selected. It’s an amazing opportunity, and I’m proud to represent Samoa.”

Amber explained that she has taken part in many programs and competitions in Samoa and enjoys helping younger players.

She said that basketball inspires her, it challenges her to work hard, stay disciplined, and be a better teammate. 

“I want to thank my family for always supporting me, our Samoa National Basketball Association, especially the president and committee, for believing in me and supporting young players. I’m also grateful to all my coaches, volunteers, and mentors who have helped me grow both on and off the court,” said Amber

“I’m truly excited for this opportunity and ready to learn as much as I can. I look forward to representing Samoa proudly, gaining new skills, and bringing that knowledge back to support younger players.” 

The She Hoops "Leadership and Confidence Scholarship" initiative is one of several development opportunities delivered through the PacificAus Sports partnership, which enables Oceania athletes, coaches, and officials to access high‑quality training and learning experiences. 

She Hoops is a basketball initiative in Australia that exists to break down barriers and build a community of women and girls who feel seen, heard, and empowered.

The She Hoops mission is to provide more opportunities for women and girls to get involved and stay involved in basketball. They do this by inspiring, connecting, and empowering women and girls through engaging programs, networking events, and leadership pathways.